The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert regarding a counterfeit batch of Phesgo 600mg/600mg/10ml, used in the treatment of breast cancer.
The counterfeit drug, labelled with batch number C5290S20, was brought to NAFDAC’s attention after a report from the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH-NSIA).
According to NAFDAC, the suspected counterfeit drug was not administered, but its characteristics closely matched those of a previously reported counterfeit batch, C3809C51.
The Marketing Authorization Holder (MAH), Roche, confirmed the drug was counterfeit after comparing images of the suspect batch with genuine samples.
Roche’s investigation identified several discrepancies, including missing batch numbers, language inconsistencies, and incorrect labelling features.
“This counterfeit drug poses a significant health risk to consumers as it may not meet the required safety, quality, and effectiveness standards,” NAFDAC wrote on it website on Sunday.
The agency emphasised the importance of obtaining medicines only from authorised, licensed suppliers and urged vigilance at every level of the supply chain.
Healthcare professionals and consumers are advised to report any suspicions of counterfeit drugs to NAFDAC’s contact number or through its website.
NAFDAC has instructed its zonal directors and state coordinators to intensify surveillance and remove counterfeit products from circulation.
The agency also reminds the public to report adverse reactions to medicinal products via the NAFDAC e-reporting platform.
